Coretta Scott King Remembered as Civil Rights Giant

She died in a holistic healing center in Mexico, where she was receiving treatment after a heart attack and stroke in August.

It was just two weeks ago in Atlanta, when Mrs. King made her last public appearance. She didn't speak, but received a standing ovation.

People across the world have admired and respected Mrs. King for her civil rights work. She stood by her husband, organizing marches and sit-ins while raising their four children.

When her husband was assassinated in 1968, Mrs. King continued to fight for equality, though non-violence. She also helped to preserve his memory.

News of her death quickly spread, flags were lowered to half-staff at the King Center in Atlanta and local residents were saddened to hear of her passing.

"This is a tremendous loss, it's another in a series of traumatic losses for the African American community," said Alphonso Braggs, president of the Hawaii chapter of the NAACP.

In a written statement, Gov. Linda Lingle said "Her memory will be honored every day we enjoy freedom from racial injustice." Sen. Daniel Akaka said "I have long admired her leadership in fighting discrimination based on gender, sexual preference, race and religion."